Nutrient gaps are prevalent among women experiencing infertility, a cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2013–2020

Abstract

Background Adequate nutrient intake is important for supporting reproductive health. Few studies have examined the role of nutrients for fertility among women, resulting in a critical evidence gap. The aim of this study was to explore the usual intake and prevalence of nutrient inadequacies from foods only and foods plus dietary supplements among women of child bearing age with and without infertility. Methods This cross-sectional study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a national survey in the United States. Participants included women aged 18–44 years from 2013–2020 with or without infertility (difficulty trying to conceive for at least one-year). The mean usual intakes and prevalence of inadequacy (%